Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots: A Simple, Sweet, and Savory Side Dish
This recipe for brown sugar glazed carrots is a simple yet elegant side dish that's perfect for any occasion. The sweet and savory flavor combination is irresistible, and the carrots retain a delightful tender-crisp texture. It's a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prep the Carrots: Peel and slice the carrots into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking. If you prefer, you can leave some of the carrot tops on for a visually appealing presentation.
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Sauté the Carrots: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the carrots and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
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Add the Brown Sugar Glaze: Stir in the brown sugar, salt, pepper, and cinnamon (if using). Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the carrots are tender-crisp and the brown sugar has caramelized, creating a beautiful glaze. Be careful not to burn the sugar. If it starts to stick too much, add a tablespoon or two of water.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and serve immediately. These glazed carrots are delicious as a side dish with roasted chicken, pork, or fish. They also pair well with mashed potatoes or other roasted vegetables.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder along with the other seasonings.
- Spice it up: A dash of cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick.
- Make it ahead: These carrots can be prepared ahead of time and reheated gently before serving.
- Different sugars: You can experiment with other types of sugar, such as coconut sugar or maple syrup, for a unique flavor profile. However, brown sugar provides the best balance of sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, during the last few minutes of cooking for added texture.
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